Flinders PhD Enterprise Scholarship: Investigative Drilling (ID) method theoretical investigation and practical applicat...

Flinders University and Civil Group (Aust) Pty Ltd are offering a PhD Enterprise Scholarship to undertake innovative research into investigative drilling (ID) method for ground investigation

Flinders University, College of Science and Engineering and Civil Group (Aust) Pty Ltd are collaborating on this research project to develop a framework for geotechnical investigations using the ID method, thus providing a rigorous technical basis for its general industry use and acceptance in geotechnical strata investigation.  Bringing significant industry experience to the project, Civil Group is a diverse construction and drilling company, providing service to transmission line construction, renewable energy, mining and infrastructure construction.  Flinders College of Science and Engineering is also committed to undertake advanced research in geomechanics, addressing real world problems and promoting sustainable development and has complimentary research strengths in geotechnical site characterization and foundation systems.  Together we are seeking innovative solutions to this challenging area of research through this PhD project. 

Acquiring accurate ground conditions is of primary importance for civil construction projects. The past few decades have seen significant advances in ground investigation techniques, among which the Measuring While Drilling (MWD) technique has gained in popularity in geotechnical site explorations. The ID Method is based on the MWD system and consists of measuring the mechanical responses of a drill rig during the process of advancing a drillhole through soil and/or rock layers. Civil Group has applied the ID method in a significant number of major infrastructure projects, which offers a highly affordable alternative to the conventional geotechnical investigation approach.

This project aims to develop a fast, economical, and reliable solution to reduce risks associated with unforeseen and/or variable ground conditions, ensuring the highest level of risk mitigation and verification prior to construction activities. It is proposed to explore the correlations between the data obtained from the ID technique and the conventional site investigation methods. Analysis and interpretation of the measured data will be carried out to develop and validate the soil behavior classification. Correlations among ID measured data and standard in-situ and laboratory test results from existing projects will be established in terms of strength and stiffness properties. A hybrid approach for ground investigation by combining the benefits of both physics-based and data-driven modelling will be explored as well.

The PhD Enterprise Scholarship also includes an internship of at least 60 full-time equivalent days, agreed to in written form within 18 months of candidature, undertaken and completed prior to completion of the PhD, during which you will be embedded with the industry partner team, developing your network, and gaining insight into the everyday research practices of an industry-leading/service driven organisation.

To find out more about this exciting scholarship opportunity, contact Dr Hongyu Qin via email at: [email protected]